Effects of Lead Paint Poisoning
Dangers of Lead Paint:
Workers rapidly produced lead paint as early as the 4th century BC. Artists and laborers commonly used the paint color lead white due to its thickness, density, and opacity. In addition, in homes, contractors began adding lead to paint to accelerate drying times and create a long-lasting finish to their work. Unknown to the users, old paint is always bound to wear and tear, eventually requiring owners to repaint affected areas. However, when lead paint peels or cracks, it makes lead dust and chips. The debris from lead paint makes children the most vulnerable to lead poisoning. Children under six years old are especially at high risk because their bodies rapidly develop, causing severe side effects. Young children who tend to put their hands or objects in their mouths is a typical transmission of lead exposure. Effects of lead exposure on children
include:
Damage to the brain and nervous system
Slowed growth and development
Learning and behavior problems
Hearing and speech problems
Organ failure
Lead poisoning can also lead to children having less IQ, decreased ability to pay attention, and underperformance in school/education. In addition, pregnant women should also be aware of lead poisoning. According to the CDC, adults exposed to lead have a possibility of exposing infants via breastfeeding. Adults can also feel similar impacts of lead exposure.
In 1978 lead paint was banned from consumer use, in the United States and 72 countries, due to these growing health concerns. Households built before 1978 in low-income areas are most likely to have lead paint and have pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures containing lead. While it's not possible to guarantee lead paint with a naked eye, there are specific features that can help you identify it. “Alligatoring” refers to when the lead paint starts to crack or wrinkle and resembles alligator scales. In addition, if a chalky residue rubs off the paint, there is a possibility you have lead paint.
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